Mike Dean, a former Premier League referee, has stated that Manchester City’s opening goal against Liverpool in Sunday’s Premier League title showdown was completely legitimate.
Jurgen Klopp’s team aimed to regain the top position in the standings after dropping to second place due to Arsenal’s 2-1 victory against Brentford. Nevertheless, City took the lead at Anfield thanks to John Stones.
The ex-Everton player skillfully scored a goal from a well-placed corner kick by Kevin De Bruyne, beating Caoimhin Kelleher at the near post. Nevertheless, there were expectations that VAR would overturn the goal due to Nathan Ake’s apparent obstruction of Alexis Mac Allister’s involvement.
Regrettably for Liverpool, the goal was upheld and City’s rapid start on Merseyside was duly acknowledged. During his appearance on Sky Sports with Peter Drury, Gary Neville, and Jamie Carragher, Dean provided a clear and concise explanation as to why there was no issue with the goal.
“In my opinion, when observed from the perspective behind the goal, Mac Allister is actively exerting a force on Ake, causing him to move towards him,” stated the ex-referee. “In my opinion, there was no flaw in the objective to be completely truthful with you.”
Neville commended Ake’s astute contribution to the goal, but raised the query over the potential intervention of VAR. He stated, “I will need to examine it once more, but De Bruyne’s performance was truly brilliant.” How has he managed to identify that particular run?
“They must have put effort into that, what an individual to achieve that goal, what an individual for the specific event!” Ake demonstrates exceptional intelligence as he obstructs Mac Allister. However, it is possible that VAR will review the situation to determine if Ake’s obstruction occurred while he was in an offside position. Is he obstructing his access to that area?
“Coaches throughout the nation will be observing that with admiration!”
